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 The Tasmanian Government has assumed a caretaker role ahead of the election for the Tasmanian House of Assembly. It is important during this time that Tasmanian Government resources are not used to communicate political material. As such, no political or election material will be placed on this site.

Active Tasmania

Ian Harlow Stewart

Member 1993 - Born 14 July 1943

Tasmanians are justifiably proud of the succession of talented players who made their mark in the VFL. Ian Stewart rates as one of the best who crossed Bass Strait.

After playing only 13 games with Hobart and one for Tasmania, he was recruited by St Kilda in 1963. He became an instant success and won his Club's best and fairest award in only his second year.

A superb left foot kick, Stewart honed his skills to such an extent that he became one of the game's greatest players. Flawless control with both hand and foot and courage which left many in fear for his safety, he became one of a very select band of players to win three Brownlow Medals - two with St Kilda including 1966 when St Kilda won its only VFL Premiership and one with Richmond the Club to which he transferred in 1970.

He played 127 games with St Kilda and 78 with Richmond before moving to South Melbourne in 1976 as a non playing coach. In 1977 his Swans reached the elimination final. Named coach of Carlton in 1978 he resigned because of ill health then returned to South Melbourne for the 1979, 80, and 81 seasons.

When football followers discuss their 'best ever' football teams, Ian Stewart's name is more often than not listed in the centre - a position he dominated with outstanding skill and courage for his 207 VFL games.